Trevecca sets new enrollment record with impressive growth

As the students settle into the Fall 2016 semester, Trevecca Nazarene University is celebrating the largest total enrollment in the University’s history. The largest freshman class to date and impressive gains in the University’s School of Graduate and Continuing Studies (SGCS) combined for a record-setting enrollment of 3,000-plus students, ranging from traditional undergraduates to graduate and online students.

This year’s total enrollment reflects 32 percent growth over the same time last year. 

Additionally, Trevecca shattered its all-time traditional undergraduate enrollment for the third consecutive year. The University welcomed 1,374 undergraduate students to campus for the Fall 2016 semester.

The traditional undergraduate enrollment number also reflects the largest freshman class in Trevecca’s 115-year history, achieving 14 percent growth from last year’s incoming freshman class. Members of the freshman class hail from 36 states and 22 countries.

In September, SGCS enrollment topped 1,500 for the first time in history, reflecting more than 40 percent growth among non-traditional, graduate and online students in just one year. Officials estimate SGCS enrollment has grown by 60 percent over the course of the last two years. Enrollment numbers will continue to grow as new non-traditional students cohorts start their programs throughout the fall.

“I’m so excited about this record-breaking growth Trevecca is experiencing,” said Dr. Dan Boone, Trevecca’s president. “Our faculty and staff are dedicated to teaching, mentoring and helping our students discover their calling and succeed in their chosen fields. We truly want to invest in the lives of students. Our care and commitment is a big reason so many students have made Trevecca their home.”

A strong retention rate, increased applications and significant numbers of transfer students all contributed to the growth of traditional undergraduate enrollment. University officials say freshmen programs, such as LINK groups and LINK classes, helped maintain strong retention of last year’s freshman class.

SGCS officials attribute the record growth in non-traditional undergraduate, graduate and online students to Trevecca’s commitment to serving the non-traditional learner combined with an intentional growth plan.

“Christian higher education is a significant tool in the 21st century by which we can share the good news of Jesus Christ,” said Dr. Tim Eades, associate provost and vice president for graduate and continuing studies. “Learners of all ages are taking evening, weekend and online non-traditional degree programs, expanding their knowledge and advancing their careers.”

Trevecca is a Christian university in the heart of Nashville focused on preparing students for lives of leadership and service. Founded in 1901, Trevecca is committed to holistic education, encouraging students to grow intellectually, socially, emotionally, physically and spiritually. Located approximately 1 mile from thriving downtown Nashville, Trevecca provides a liberal arts education while guiding students to find God’s calling on their lives.


Media contact: Mandy Crow, mmcrow@trevecca.edu, 615-248-1695